It's still too early to guess with much confidence when the 2023 bloom will be. But we've seen a much-warmer-than-normal January, and long-range forecasts suggest above-average temperatures continuing as we get deeper into February (after a short very cold spurt at the beginning of the month).
On average, Washington DC's cherry blossoms bloom around late-March into early April, but the precise timing varies year to year depending on the local temperatures in the leadup to the bloom. You can find general information on the 2023 bloom to help plan your visit here.
Just as the NPS said, the cherry blossoms are racing through their development thanks to the unseasonably warm weather we've had. Even in the two days since the last update there's been a lot of development in the buds.
The indicator tree isn't blooming yet, but it's not far away from popping (see photos below). And the tulip magnolias and some other flowering trees are out. If you're looking to take photos, head over to the George Mason Memorial. There's a particularly good cluster of them there.
And a reminder that the Maine Ave parking lot will be closed to parking tomorrow (March 14) through April 7 for the tents for the cherry blossom festival.
Photos Taken This Morning
As usual, I've included close-ups from several different trees. It serves as a good illustration of how not all the trees are on precisely the same schedule.
Indicator Tree
The indicator tree isn't flower yet, but it's close to popping, with the white petals starting to become clearly visible. Typically, this single tree flowers a week or so ahead of the others. You can find out more about it here.
Tulip Magnolias
The tulip magnolias are out all over town. You can find a particularly good cluster of them by the George Mason Memorial, which is where these were taken.
